December 24, 2025 — Fishers by Current Publishing

TO HAVE CURRENT DELIVERED TO YOUR PHONE

TOO OLD’

Fishers author challenges negative perceptions of aging / P9

HSE board adds new courses for 2025-26 / P3

Local students win We The People competition / P5

Patachou opens in Fishers / P8

Cafe

THE ELMO COLA. OUR HOUSE OR YOURS?

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HSE board OKs new courses in response to diploma changes

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

In response to new statewide diploma requirements, the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees approved 10 new courses Dec. 11 that will be offered to high school students starting in the 2025-26 school year.

EDUCATION

The new diplomas take effect for that school year’s incoming freshmen and the changes don’t apply to any student currently enrolled in high school — unless the district chooses to adopt the new diplomas before the state’s deadline.

college and beyond,” he said. “And there were adjustments made in this version to really bring forward some increased rigor and preparation and personalization to that side of the diploma.”

The adjustments include seals for each diploma indicating completion of all the courses required for the track a student chose — college, workforce or military.

Urban said the new requirements include one less credit for physical education, one less credit in economics — but an added credit for a personal finance course — and fewer required credits for world history and geography.

students align classes with their interests.

“The networks really is unique (to the) Hamilton Southeastern Schools model,” Urban said. “It’s forward thinking and I think it is truly responsive and really takes advantage of the opportunities given to us with the new diploma changes. There are eight networks identified and under almost every one of those networks are both college level coursework and career technical coursework.”

The networks are medical; agricultural and natural resources; engineering and technology; business and administration; public services; arts and communication; innovation; and international baccalaureate.

New courses approved Dec. 11 are computing foundations; networking and cybersecurity; information technology; AP precalculus; introduction to informatics (the science of information); analytical foundations of security; engineering and technology; STEM/engineering; a class on post-secondary school preparation; and technical math — a math class for students who intend to enter the trades.

Before the vote, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools Jason Urban provided some background to the board, including how the state arrived at the new diploma requirements.

“If you remember when the first draft of this diploma came out, there was some backlash of it maybe not being rigorous enough, not really preparing students for

The new diplomas provide flexibility in the kinds of electives, science and math classes that count toward a student’s required credits, Urban said, and all students will have to take a class that focuses on college and career preparation.

Urban noted that HSE School District is well positioned to react to the new state requirements because of its previous work with the Ford Next Generation Learning program, which helped the district come up with a plan to better prepare students for their chosen career paths.

The district didn’t continue with the Ford NGL model because there were aspects that didn’t align with HSE, Urban said, but the process helped set guidelines and goals that were relevant to the new diplomas. The district will be offering what he called a “network” model that helps

TO OUR READERS:

We are pleased to announce that as of Jan. 7, 2025, we are increasing total circulation of your edition, which you will come to know as Current in Fishers & Geist. Households served each Tuesday by mail will increase to 35,580 from 29,297.

Until that day, Geist-area news still will be packaged with Current in Lawrence/Geist. To help keep the quality of content

Urban said a more detailed presentation about the district’s networks will be offered during a Jan. 22 work session. The district also plans to share information with parents of current eighth-graders during two meetings Jan. 15 and 16.

In other matters Dec. 11, the school board approved a 3 percent pay raise for district support staff, capped at a maximum of $1,400 per employee. Most administrators also received $1,400 pay increases, with the exception of Superintendent Patrick Mapes and the executive leadership team.

Those pay increases mirror the $1,400 raises for teachers approved Nov. 26 by the school board.

The next HSE Board of Trustees meeting is set for 6 p.m. Jan. 8 at the district’s central office, 13485 Cumberland Rd.

offerings where you need them to be, you are invited, at any time, to reach out to managing editor Leila Kheiry with tips and story ideas. You will find her at leila@youarecurrent.com. Thank you for reading Current in Fishers and, soon, Current in Fishers & Geist!

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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XIV, No. 49

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Fishers noise ordinance amendment moving forward

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A change to the City of Fishers’ noise ordinance was introduced Dec. 16 that would reduce the allowed decibel levels for various activities — a response in part to complaints about loud music coming from businesses close to residential neighborhoods.

GOVERNMENT

Fishers Police Department Assistant Chief Mike Taylor has been working on the amendment for the city. He told the council that the noise ordinance hasn’t been changed in more than 10 years.

“With our mixed-use development, we’re kind of running into some issues with residents, neighborhoods, multi-family housing, being close to restaurants, bars or other businesses with live music, in particular,” he said. “And then just in general, trying to bring some of the noise complaints down across the city.”

If adopted, the amendment would reduce the maximum decibel level from 90 to 80 within a certain distance of the music’s source. A previous version of the amendment called for a maximum level of 70, but business owners were concerned that would be too restrictive.

Council President Cecilia Coble asked about the best way residents can file complaints about noise in their neighborhoods. Taylor said they can call the non-emergency police line, 317-595-3300, preferably when the noise is taking place.

“It’s definitely easier if we can get there in the moment or in the time that there’s an issue going on,” he said.

Councilor Bill Stuart said he didn’t think the 80-decibel maximum was enough by itself, but he was comfortable approving a first reading of the amendment because he understood the city’s Planning and Zoning Department was working on additional regulations to address loud bands near residential neighborhoods.

The proposed amendment specifically prohibits:

• An excess of 80 decibels for any noise at any time measured 50 feet from a property line

• An excess of 80 decibels for noise from a device — speakers, etc. — measured 50 feet from a property line between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

• Noise from a device that is plainly audible measured 50 feet from a property line between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• Noise from a device that is plainly audible at a shared boundary or shared wall between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• An excess of 80 decibels from a device at any time at the Geist shoreline or water’s edge

• Noise from a device that is plainly audible at 30 feet from the device or a motor vehicle

• Business noises that exceed 80 decibels within 50 feet of a residence between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

• Business noises that exceed 70 decibels within 50 feet of a residence between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.

The amendment will come back to the council for another vote.

The next Fishers City Council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Jan. 13, 2025, at Fishers Municipal Center theater, 1 Municipal Dr.

Kira S. VonBlon, M.S.

Wyss, Au.D.

The Fishers City Council met Dec. 16 at Fishers Municipal Center theater. (File photo)

Fishers Junior High School’s We The People team won first place in the state competition Dec. 10. (Photo courtesy of HSE)

Local students win at We The People state competition

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern School District students performed well in the Dec. 10 We The People state competitions in downtown Indianapolis, with Fishers Junior High School’s team taking first place and Fall Creek Junior High winning third in the middle school category.

CIVICS

Fishers High School and Hamilton Southeastern High School teams won second and third, respectively, in the high school competition.

We the People is administered in Indiana by the Indiana Bar Foundation.

Foundation President and CEO Chuck Dunlap said that at its core, the program is a study of the U.S. Constitution. It provides an educational component for schools that satisfies state social studies requirements, but it goes beyond that to encourage students to think critically and apply that knowledge in a mock legislative hearing.

“During the course of the semester, the students learn all about various aspects of the Constitution,” he said, adding there are six units during the semester that focus on different aspects, such as how the founders created the Constitution, what the Bill of Rights protects, etc.

Dunlap said the goal of We The People is to encourage students to think more deeply about how the Constitution applies to them and their fellow citizens.

“What’s the philosophical underpinning of freedom of speech (for example), and then you can have a lot of discussion about that freedom of speech or expression in the online community or in a school setting, all of those things,” he said.

For more, visit inbarfoundation.org/ we-the-people.

BEGINNING JANUARY 13

CITYWIDE TRASH & RECYCLING

CURRENT REPUBLIC CUSTOMERS

There might be a change in your pickup day. Visit FishersIN.gov/Trash to find your new service day

You will not receive new trash bins. If you do not currently have recycling services, a recycling bin will be delivered between 12/30 and 1/10.

You do not need to cancel your existing account/service.

NEW REPUBLIC CUSTOMERS

You will receive Republic bins between 12/30 and 1/10. Do not use these bins until your new service begins on 1/13. Each household will receive 1 recycling & 1 trash bin. Waste Management (WM) will collect old bins after your final trash collection the week of 1/6. Please leave bins out after service for pick up at no cost.

Find your new pickup day at FishersIN.gov/Trash. Trash pickup is once weekly and recycling pickup is once every other week

You do not need to cancel your existing service. WM will deactivate your account No fees will be issued

REQUESTING MORE BINS

New & existing customers may request more bins from Republic after service begins 1/13. Up to 3 bins will be provided at no additional cost.

MONTHLY BILLING

A trash fee of $16.39/month will be added to your monthly bill through Fishers Utilities. If you are not a Fishers utilities customer, you will begin receiving a monthly trash bill. Manage billing at FishersIN.gov/Utilities.

FHS girls basketball player’s game grows with confidence

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Fishers High School senior forward

Nevaeh Dickman admitted she has struggled with confidence in the past.

“But now, I feel like I’ve grown into myself as a player and know my strengths and I believe in myself more than I ever have,” Dickman said.

Fishers girls basketball coach Lauren Votaw has noticed the progress.

“Nevaeh has grown tremendously in her overall poise and willingness to be aggressive through contact,” Votaw said. “Nevaeh’s role is much the same as it was last year, in that we need her to step up and defend the other team’s best scorer on many nights as well as be an active presence for us on the offensive end. She is in a new leadership role this year as her teammates are looking to her in big moments. She has handled this well and continues to grow in her confidence as a leader.”

Dickman said she has grown as a leader in several ways.

“Learning how to communicate on the

NEVAEH DICKMAN

Favorite athletes: JuJu Watkins, Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, Carsen Edwards

Favorite TV shows: “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Dexter,” “You,” “Criminal Minds”

Favorite subject: Science/ anatomy

Favorite musician: Drake

court efficiently has helped me better connect with my teammates and coach,” she said. “I feel like I’ve also been more outgoing this year and willing to meet new people, so that has helped me grow as a

leader because my relationships with my teammates are stronger.”

The 6-foot Dickman has been averaging per-game team highs of 16.2 points on 50

IN FISHERS

percent shooting and seven rebounds for the Tigers (8-4). She averaged 10.6 ppg last season. The Tigers graduated top scorer Talia Harris last year.

“Talia was obviously a huge part of our team last year and was a large part of our scoring,” Dickman said. “This year in her absence, I wouldn’t necessarily say I feel the need to score more. I think right now I’m trying to do whatever it takes to win more games, and recently that has meant scoring more. But our team this year has a lot of great pieces that can score and create for themselves and others as well, so just doing whatever I can to win games is where I’m at.”

Basketball wasn’t love at first sight for Dickman, who will play for the University of Buffalo next season.

“I started playing when I was really young but didn’t like it that much, so I quit for a couple years,” she said. “But in fourth grade, I tried again and I started to fall in love with it and I’ve played ever since then.”

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.

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Fishers High School senior girls basketball player Nevaeh Dickman leads the team in scoring and rebounding. (Photo courtesy of Lauren Votaw)

OneZone Chamber reveals new logo, programs

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

OneZone Chamber of Commerce unveiled its new logo and upcoming programs during its “Member-Bration” luncheon and annual meeting Dec. 11 at the Forum Events Center in Fishers.

REBRAND

Speaking to a large crowd of chamber members, OneZone President and CEO Jack Russell said it had been nearly a decade since the Fishers and Carmel chambers of commerce merged to become OneZone, and since then the organization has expanded to include Northern Hamilton County. He said that with the 10-year anniversary coming up, it seemed like a good time to refresh the logo.

“We’ve not only created a new brand, but also new messaging, new communication of what we want to look like and what this looks like forward,” he said. “This is the new us. This is what we will look like for the next 10-plus years and we’re so excited to share that with you. We’re so excited to be able to show you who we are and what we want to be as we look to the

future of what exactly, but more importantly, what this symbolizes for us.”

The logo is a stylized “Z,” with pieces and colors representing Hamilton County, the White River and a covered bridge.

Russell noted that along with the new logo, the chamber will offer new programs and services for its members, including lobbying the state Legislature on issues that local business leaders have identified as priorities — with child care as the top item. Other priorities are disability employ-

ment, supporting mental health and wellness services and working with schools to provide workforce training.

Russell also announced that OneZone has renamed its various membership levels and added a new one specifically for local charities.

“It’s called our Connect membership,” he said. “This is at no cost for our notfor-profits. So, if you’re (at) 25 full time employees or less, you’re a registered 501c3 (and) you serve the Hamilton County

community, you will become a member of OneZone at no cost. That is because we know the time, the energy and talent that you share each and every day. We want to make sure that you are at the table here with us.”

Chamber programs such as the monthly Eggs and Issues and OWN meetings will continue, Russell said, and the previous Caffeinated Conversations will become a “morning master class.”

“These classes and these opportunities … are going to give you actual, tangible pieces that you can take back to you with your business,” he said. “While we love networking with connectivity, which is in everything that we do, we also want to make sure that we give you the tools you need to be successful.”

The chamber also plans to offer a leadership institute to provide training and professional development in partnership with Ball State University. In addition, Russell noted that chamber members love luncheons, so OneZone will schedule more of those opportunities, as well.

For more about OneZone and its programs, visit onezonechamber.com.

OneZone President and CEO

Jack Russell reveals the new OneZone Chamber of Commerce logo. (Photo courtesy of OneZone)

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Cafe Patachou opens in Fishers

news@currentinfishers.com

Cafe Patachou’s eighth central Indiana restaurant opened Dec. 17 in Fishers, 8654 E. 116th St., about a year after the original opening date. The restaurant announced plans for the Fishers location in fall 2022 and at the time had estimated an opening date sometime in 2023. At the same time, the company announced its new corporate name, Won’t Stop Hospitality, Inc.

FOOD

The newest Cafe Patachou will operate 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, according to a Dec. 11 announcement from Cafe Patachou. The space seats 100 in its dining room, has a private dining and meeting space and has two patios, with the west side running parallel to the Nickel Plate Trail.

“I am excited to see the opening of the eighth Cafe Patachou in Fishers,” founder Martha Hoover stated. “The pre-opening reception has been overwhelming and there is a lot of excitement surrounding bringing the Patachou experience to customers in this vibrant community.”

Indianapolis-based DELV design oversaw the architecture and interior design, with building and execution by Capitol Construction. The building’s exterior includes a variety of brick colors, textures and patterns, with a rounded brick corner emulating the original location of Cafe Patachou in Meridian Kessler, according to the announcement Cafe Patachou opened its first location in Indianapolis in 1989 and has continued to create dishes from scratch, with a focus on sourcing local and often organic ingredients. The menu includes made-to-order omelettes, salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts.

For more, visit cafepatachou.com.

Melt N Dip offers sweet treats

By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com

Melt N Dip, a restaurant specializing in decadent desserts and fresh fruit creations, opened its first location in Indiana this summer, at 9840 E 116th St., Suite 100, in Fishers.

Walking into the dessert lounge, one is greeted by towering Belgian chocolate fountains and piles of fresh Italian gelato.

“We have some really unique offerings and different takes on fresh fruit to chocolate,” said Zubair Khan, one of the co-owners and co-founders of the Melt N Dip Fishers location.

Melt N Dip’s menu has a variety of desserts, including crepes, waffles, cake, fondue, gelato and fruit platters, in addition to coffee, tea and juices — made fresh in-house.

Although the menu items are unique, what sets Melt N Dip apart is its focus on specialty ingredients and the presentation of its desserts. Many of the crepes and waffles showcase intricate designs with milk, dark and white chocolate.

Khan said one of her goals at the new

Melt N Dip was to create a space for people of all ages to spend time with each other while enjoying a unique dining experience filled with over-the-top desserts.

The owners of Melt N Dip settled on Fishers due to the community’s growing food and cultural scene. They saw a need in the community for diverse dessert offerings and Khan said she fell in love with Melt N Dip when visiting the franchise’s other stores in places like Chicago and Michigan.

“I’m super excited to be a part of the Fishers community with so much growth and things happening,” she said. “We hope to be a staple in the community for many years to come.”

For more and a menu, visit meltndip.com.

Cafe Patachou on 116th Street in downtown Fishers opened Dec. 17. (Photo courtesy of Cafe Patachou)

Melt N Dip opened in August at its first Indiana location, 9840 E 116th St., Suite 100, in Fishers. (Photo by Lauren Weidinger)

‘NOT TOO OLD’

By Cassie King news@currentinfishers.com

Aging is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of significance, joy or purpose. That’s the central message of “Not Too Old: Turning Your Later Years Into Greater Years,” the latest book by Fishers resident Dave Faust, a pastor, author and former university president.

“Many people dread getting older,” Faust said. “They equate it with failing health, declining significance and being stuck on a shelf with nothing to contribute. Even worse, for some, growing old means losing hope.”

Faust, who celebrated his 70th birthday this year, wrote the book to help older adults navigate a challenging phase of life with purpose and joy. He also aims to offer younger generations a deeper understanding of the aging process and the unique contributions their older neighbors can make.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 73 million adults over 65 will live in the United States by 2030 — and by 2034, older adults will outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history. Faust said he believes the demographic shift requires a new perspective on aging.

Although aging presents undeniable challenges, including the fear of mental decline, physical issues and the reality of death, Faust emphasized the importance of maintaining what he calls “gutsy faith” and “crazy joy.”

“To face these fears, we need a faith that is bold, robust and courageous,” Faust said. “A vague belief in God isn’t enough. I also want the joy of the Lord to overflow from my life. I don’t want to be a grumpy old man. I want to be known as someone who is crazy about my wife and family — and crazy enough to keep growing, keep having fun and keep investing in the lives of others.”

In “Not Too Old,” Faust encourages readers to embrace their later years as a time for continued growth, adventure and contribution. One of the book’s key themes is viewing retirement not as an end but a new beginning. Faust uses the metaphor of a car needing new tires.

Fishers author challenges negative perceptions of aging

“The word ‘re-tired’ reminds me of a car that needs new tread on its tires so it can keep rolling along,” he said. “The happiest retirees don’t just quit working and sit around. They find interesting new things to do while enjoying the freedom to live at a more reasonable pace.”

Faust encourages retirees to explore new hobbies, volunteer, mentor younger generations and remain actively involved in their communities.

Faust also addresses the losses that come with aging, such as health, loved ones and dreams. He draws on personal experiences and biblical principles to offer practical advice for navigating grief and finding purpose amid loss.

“My wife Candy and I have been married for 50 years,” Faust said. “People usually

say our names together— ‘Dave and Candy.’ If she were to die, I would have to wrestle with my own identity and ask the question, ‘Who am I without her?’”

Faust, who has spent decades in ministry, believes the church has a vital role to play in supporting and engaging older adults.

“Some churches today ignore older adults or take them for granted,” he said. “Personally, I want to be part of a church where Grandma and Grandpa are still involved — mentoring young married couples, loving babies in the church nursery, leading small groups and serving alongside the next generation.”

As people age, staying spiritually engaged and inspired can become more challenging. Faust emphasizes the impor-

A FAITHFUL WRITER

With 17 books already published, Faust shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to write a weekly column for Christian Standard magazine and looks forward to future projects.

“People over age 50 can live joyful and productive lives,” Faust said. “You’re never too old to make a difference and

to grow in faith, hope and love.”

Faust has served in ministry roles for half a century, leading churches in Ohio, New York and Indiana, and serving for two decades as a university professor and president. He is now the senior associate minister at E. 91st St. Christian Church in Indianapolis.

tance of maintaining a vibrant relationship with God through prayer, Bible study and service.

“The Bible contains practical wisdom about the issues we face in senior adulthood,” Faust said. “It offers guidance on managing money, building lasting friendships, dealing with grief and preparing for the end of life.”

Faust hopes groups will use his book to engage older adults more effectively. It includes practical advice, scriptural insights and humor.

“The first chapter is called, ‘You Need to Read This Book—Even if You Are Young,’” Faust said. “It’s relevant to mid-life adults with aging parents and grandparents, people preparing for retirement and anyone looking to make the most of their later years.”

He said his passion for encouraging others shines through in his writing and he is committed to helping people live joyful and productive lives, regardless of age.

For more, visit collegepress.com/products/not-too-old-turning-your-later-yearsinto-greater-years or Amazon.

THE COVER: Fishers resident Dave Faust has written a new book with a positive message about aging. (Photo courtesy of Dave Faust)

Dave Faust of Fishers with his newest book, “Not Too Old.” (Photo by Cassie King)

Fishers author Dave Faust has written numerous books. (Photo courtesy of Dave Faust)

CHS graduate pays tribute to great piano men

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Craig A. Meyer was often told that he resembled Elton John.

That led Meyer to create a tribute act 15 years ago, during which he dons replicas of some of Elton’s most famous garb.

The 1981 Carmel High School graduate will return to Feinstein’s cabaret in Carmel’s Hotel Carmichael on New Year’s Eve for the third consecutive year. His “Elton, Billy & Barry — They Write the Songs” shows are set for 7:30 and 10:45 p.m.

“Their catalog is so rich and so deep,” Meyer said. “Billy Joel has epic songs like ‘Scenes from an Italian Restaurant.’ Barry Manilow has thoughtful songs like ‘Mandy’ and ‘Could It Be Magic” as well as fun stuff like ‘Copacabana.’ It’s such a deep catalog of music that really is the soundtrack of at least my generation on the radio.”

Meyer said he tries to split the setlist as evenly as possible between the three piano men during the 75-minute shows.

“In the full two-hour version, it’s a little more even, but you try to do the best you can with the time you are given,” Meyer said. “It will cover all the greats. In addition to that, I got some really great footage from my show that I get to share in the show, talking about working with Barry and being on tour with him. It’s really fun.”

Meyer was part of an ensemble of two men and three women performing with Manilow during his “Showstoppers” tour in 1991-92.

“He gave each of us the opportunity to step out on our own and take the stage,” Meyer said.

Meyer will recount his journey in his two Feinstein’s performances.

“I have fun every time I step out on stage, but performing as myself and being able to tell my story is really fun,” Meyer said. “Getting feedback from the audience in hearing my own stories is just a lot of fun.”

Based in Atlanta, Meyer said visiting

Carmel is a good time to connect with friends and extended family.

“I’m looking forward to a rocking New Year,” he said.

Elton John hits he performs include “Bennie & the Jets,” “Tiny Dancer” and “Crocodile Rock.” Billy Joel songs include “You May Be Right” and “Piano Man.”

In addition to his vocal performances, Meyer has appeared on Broadway in “Meet Me in St. Louis” and toured nationally in “Cats” and “White Christmas.” He has acted in TV shows, such as “Will and Grace” and “General Hospital.” Meyer also has made film appearances in “Leatherheads” and “Identity Thief.”

ON TAP

Dan Farrell will return to Feinstein’s at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10, 2025 with “Sweet Caroline: The Life and Music of Neil Diamond.” He will present “Thank You for the Music” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16. Farrell, a Westfield resident, stepped away from his role as one of the three

co-founders of Actors Theatre of Indiana In 2023. He has created tribute shows to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Jimmy Buffett and Barry Manilow. He will perform his Bennett show Feb. 22 at Feinstein’s. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Jan. 5 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Murder Mystery Night” is set for Dec. 27 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

Civic Theatre’s presentation of “White Christmas” concludes Dec. 24 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

DISPATCHES

Songbook Foundation hires communications manager — The Great American Songbook Foundation has hired an experienced professional for a new staff position focusing on communications. Brian Bosma has begun work as the Foundation’s first communications manager, creating and managing content for a comprehensive communications strategy that includes newsletters, social media, event publicity, web updates, marketing materials and other digital and print communications. Bosma served most recently as director of marketing and communications for Damar Services in Indianapolis. Previous work has included overseeing digital media for Ivy Tech Community College and Traders Point Christian Church and managing media relations and communications for the Indianapolis Indians.

Kingston Trio concert set — The Kingston Trio will perform a concert at 7 p.m. Jan. 11, 2025, at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The Kingston Trio is known for such folk hits as “Tom Dooley” and “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Craig A. Meyer, a 1981 Carmel High School graduate, will perform a tribute to Elton John, Barry Manilow and Billy Joel. (Photo courtesy of Craig A. Meyer)

I’ll never guess what I got you for Christmas

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Each year during the holidays, I pick a favorite Christmas column from the past 25 years that I particularly liked and thought you’d like to read again. Or read for the first time. Or maybe the second time, but you do not remember the first time. Any of these work for me.

HUMOR

This story begins several years ago when the UPS truck pulled up to the curb at our house. We saw the driver struggle with a huge carton the size of a big-screen TV. He maneuvered it to the front porch and left it leaning against the door. I went outside to look at it.

“Who’s it for?” my wife Mary Ellen asked. I checked the label, which was addressed to me, but sometimes that sticker is misleading. Some of our credit cards are in my name, some are in Mary Ellen’s, so when a delivery is made, we are not sure who ordered it and who the gift is ultimately for. If the wrong person opens it, there goes the surprise on Christmas morning.

“It says it’s for me,” I told her. “But I have no recollection of ordering anything so big. Maybe you ordered it, Mary Ellen?”

“Dick, I know what it is. It’s that special item I mentioned two months ago that I wanted for Christmas. You said you found it in a catalog. Don’t you remember? I am so excited! Thank you.”

“I have absolutely no memory. Can you give me a hint?”

“No hints. That would ruin the surprise.”

“Ruin the surprise? The gift is for you! It’s supposed to be your surprise. But you already know what it is. I’m the one who doesn’t have a clue.”

“It doesn’t seem right to tell you. That’s not in keeping with the spirit of giving, Dick.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

“OK, whisper softly in my ear and I promise I won’t tell you what you said.”

It scared me a little that this made sense.

“Is it a high-tech item?” I asked.

“Not really,” Mary Ellen said.

“Do you plug it in?”

“No.”

“But I don’t want to play anymore. If you guess it, I’ll have nothing to look forward to on Christmas morning. I want to see the expression on your face when I open it, and you see what you got me.”

Later that morning when Mary Ellen went out grocery shopping, I opened the box. Let me tell you, it was a really neat present. I don’t think I have ever been happier with something I bought my wife. Before Mary Ellen got home, I resealed it, then gift-wrapped it and placed it under the tree. Of course, now we both knew what was in the package. It will still be a surprise on Christmas morning, if we can both keep a secret.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

Editor,

READERS’ VIEWS

I am writing about the letter from Heather in the Nov. 19 issue of Current.

From the tone of Heather’s letter, you would have to assume that the election did not go her way.

While the election did not go Heather’s way, it did not give her the right to chastise people who did not vote. If you ask anyone that did not vote, they will tell you that their “no” vote was in protest to the existing conditions, and others will

tell you it’s none of your business. Both answers are correct.

Evidently, enough people got off their hands to go vote so that Mr. Trump has a friendly House and Senate when he takes office in January.

And as far as anyone can tell what anyone will do or not do after they enter public office, only God knows.

God bless this great country.

Lou King, Navy veteran, Fishers

Blueprint for Improvement: Opulent primary bath in Zionsville

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2006 in the Hunt Country Preserve section of Zionsville, this primary bathroom featured lots of great space but lacked modern style. Our team reimagined the layout to create a luxurious retreat that makes every day feel like an opulent spa day.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Natural elements like oak, cedar, natural stone and crystal are expertly combined with man-made components like porcelain, glass and metals for a dynamic material mix that makes a statement.

• The new vanity creates a dramatic focal point thanks to custom oak cabinetry, quartzite counters and arched brass mirrors.

• The hardware and fixtures convey the perfect balance of classic style with modern appeal thanks to luxe gold tones and contemporary lines.

• The sauna, clad in tongue-and-groove eucalyptus, provides the ultimate at-home spa experience.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.